Journal of Vocational Research and Practice


Welcome

The Journal of Vocational Research and Practice (JVRP) is a peer-reviewed, open-access publication for research generated within vocational and professional settings.

We publish studies produced by apprentices, workplace learners, instructors, supervisors, and pracademics whose inquiry is embedded in practice.

Our aim

Despite the significant impact of inquiry undertaken by apprentices, workplace learners, and practitioner-researchers, their work often remains unseen in mainstream academic publishing.

JVRP seeks to address this gap by showcasing studies and projects which inform practice and advance professional knowledge.

Our latest issue

JVRP Volume 2 Issue 1

This special issue, Innovative Support Mechanisms in Apprenticeships, brings together scholarly and practice-based contributions that explore novel ways of enhancing apprentice learning, progression, and wellbeing across diverse contexts.

Archive of previous issues

JVRP Volume 1 Issue 1

In this inaugural issue, we explore the purpose and power of vocational research, practical approaches to writing from experience, methodologies for work-based inquiry, and ethical considerations in research. We also highlight strategies for supporting first-time authors and share an example submission to inspire future contributions.

 

How to contribute to a future issue

Student writing while wearing headphones

Examples of suitable projects

We welcome submissions which yield economic (financial), social, technological, or environmental impact in a particular setting; of which there are lessons which can be learned for our readership who may subsequently implement these in another setting or even use them to influence wider policy and legislation.

Full guidance for authors (PDF, 135KB)

Publishing routes

We are keen to cater for a diverse range of submission types which makes publishing in a journal not only accessible, but enjoyable. Our submission routes are:

Research Paper

5,000–10,000 words
Peer-reviewed original research reporting on projects, studies, or evaluations conducted within vocational or professional practice. Submissions should demonstrate methodological rigour, clear analysis, and evidence of impact in context.

Account of Practice or Reflective Piece

1,000–2,500 words
Editorially reviewed narratives or reflections exploring lessons learned, innovative approaches, or emerging insights from practice. Ideal for apprentices, trainers, or practitioner-researchers seeking to share experience-based learning.

Poster Presentation

10-minute presentation
Visual or oral summaries of applied research or work-based projects, suitable for digital or conference presentation. Posters should highlight key findings, methods, and implications for practice.

Hackathon Special Issue

1,000–2,500 words
Articles in response to a “hackathon” brief where we, or a guest editor(s) provide a specific topic to address. These concise papers capture collective insight, innovation, and practical solutions generated in real time.

Student's hands typing on a keyboard

I'm ready to submit – how do I do this?

Once you have prepared your paper or poster using the associated template and completed a declaration form please email them to kieron.chadwick@staffs.ac.uk.

You should receive an email within 72 hours confirming receipt of your submission.

Meet the team

Editor in chief

Kieron Chadwick

Lecturer

Lecturer in Business, specialising in higher and degree-level apprenticeships.

Kieron's profile

Editorial board

  • Karen Castle – University of Staffordshire
  • Yasmin Deter – TrAC Apprenticeships
  • Dilrukshi Dimungu Hewage – University of Staffordshire
  • Claire Holdcroft - University of Staffordshire
  • Trevor Gerhardt – Independent Academic
  • Joanne Gosling – QA Limited
  • Becky Quew-Jones – University of Portsmouth
  • Alexia Seabrook - Tesco
  • Sofija Venckute - HawkVen
for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2025

for Social Inclusion

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

for First Generation Students

The Mail University Guide 2026

in the UK for Games Education

Rookies Games Design and Development 2023, 2025

TIGA Best Games Institution 2024, 2025

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021